A friendly reminder to all travelers: NEVERaccept goods from strangers, no matter how innocent or “harmless” they may seem. For all you know, you could be carrying a banned item into the UAE, which could land you in jail or cost you a hefty fine!

To caution passengers against accepting items from strangers, the Abu Dhabi Network has released a video online. They advised travelers to refuse carrying boxes, parcels, or any kind of packaged items into the country.

Screenshot from @NET_AD on Twitter

Video Warns Against Carrying Banned Items into UAE

The video shows how a simple box — made to look like a newly-bought mobile phone — can be used to conceal banned items. After breaking the plastic seal and opening the box, officials discover narcotic substances hidden inside the case.

In accordance with the GCC Customs Tariff Codes, certain items are prohibited from being imported, exported, or transited into the UAE. Meanwhile, there are items that may be carried into the country, although these require permits from a recognised authority.

The next time you travel, be sure to avoid bringing any of these items! Aside from these goods, there are certain medicines that are also prohibited in the country. To see whether your medication is included in the list, check out these banned medicines in the UAE.